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Arsenal legend fears Sanchez arrival could harm Rashford

Marcus Rashford could suffer for the arrival of Alexis Sanchez at Manchester United, according to Martin Keown.

Sanchez is expected to join United in the coming days, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan headed the other way to Arsenal.

The Chilean is sure to be a regular starter at Old Trafford, meaning that playing opportunities for his fellow forwards could be restricted.

Rashford has not started any of United’s last three Premier League games, and has not scored or assisted in his last six league appearances.

Keown believes that the 20-year-old is ‘in danger’ of losing his place, but has the chance to feature if he keeps battling.

‘There is a concern that the arrival of Alexis Sanchez could dent Marcus Rashford’s career,’ he told the Daily Mail.

‘I cannot imagine Gareth Southgate will be too pleased if the opportunities for one of the best young English players are reduced — especially in a World Cup year.

‘You get the feeling that it is survival of the fittest at Old Trafford. The last time I watched them there, I saw Henrikh Mkhitaryan struggling to cope in that environment. Now he is leaving the club.

‘I do think Rashford can handle the pressure. He just needs to slow things down when he gets his chance from the bench.

‘He is doing everything at a frantic pace because he feels he needs to do more to catch his manager’s eye. I want to see more from him — he just needs to relax a little.

‘At big clubs, your place is always in danger. If Rashford keeps believing in himself, he can have a bright future at United.’